Why the Dirty Spritz is trending
Cocktail “mash-ups” are everywhere right now: familiar flavors in a new, easy format. The Dirty Spritz is a standout example—salty and savory like a Dirty Martini, but bright and refreshing like a spritz.
Recipe: Dirty Spritz (1 drink)
Ingredients
3 green olives
1.5 oz vodka (or a non-alcoholic vodka alternative)
0.5 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup (equal parts sugar and water)
3 oz chilled soda water
Ice
Garnish: 1 orange slice and 1 green olive
Optional: 0.25–0.5 oz olive brine for a more “dirty” taste
Method
Gently muddle 2 olives in a shaker (just enough to release flavor).
Add vodka, lemon juice, simple syrup (and optional olive brine). Fill with ice and shake until very cold.
Strain into a wine glass filled with ice. Top with chilled soda water and stir gently.
Garnish with an orange slice and one olive.
Tips that elevate the drink
Keep it ice-cold
Chill the glass and use plenty of ice for a crisp, clean finish.
Choose the right olives
Firm green olives bring the best salty bite and look great as a garnish.
Dial in the balance
More lemon adds brightness. More brine adds savory depth. Adjust in small steps until it’s perfect for you.
A great non-alcoholic version
Swap vodka for a non-alcoholic vodka alternative and keep everything else the same. You’ll still get that salty-citrus aperitivo feel, with a lighter profile.
What to serve with it (aperitivo style)
Salted almonds, lightly salted chips, marinated olives, a simple burrata with lemon zest, or small bites with briny notes. Salty snacks make the spritz feel even more intentional and “set.”
